September’s First Friday featured a performance by the Tulsa Symphony on Guthrie Green as well as a new exhibition at downtown galleries.
Friends, family and art — what more could you ask for on a Friday night? The art crawl held in Downtown Tulsa is the perfect way to kick off the first weekend of every month.
Galleries, studios and museums open their doors to intrigued visitors for longer viewing hours free of charge or at a reduced cost. Warm faces greet you at every door, and the unique exhibitions strike you with gratitude for the diversity of perspective each gallery displays.
108 Contemporary showed a continuation of their newest exhibit, which will be
open until Sept. 22. “Building on the Body” features a collection from artists in parts of Asia, Europe and the United States that explores the boundaries of identity through one’s sense of belonging and place using jewelry. Artists explore the theme of wearable architecture using their own distinct styles. The artists used Industrial materials to fashion necklaces, rings, bracelets and various other adornments, and each artists’ motivation for their choice in material and form leave viewers questioning traditional ideals.
Strolling down the sidewalk during First Friday is a treat within itself. Local theater groups hand out fliers for their upcoming shows. Performers stop to set-up shop on the sidewalk of Brady Street and play a few songs and organizations set up booths to spread their message. One such organization found at First Friday this month was Take Control Initiative, a non-profit organization in Tulsa that aims to educate and empower women and break down barriers, allowing better access to contraception.
The Guthrie Green also participates in the art crawl and has different events every month, ranging from concerts and art markets to charity fundraisers. It’s a place to support the arts and connect with others. September’s First Friday on the Green showcased the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. After starting promptly at 7:30 p.m., the conductor kept the sea of people in front of the stage involved between each piece through chants and charming commentary, and the music itself compelled audience members to clap along. The night was family-friendly and perfect for relaxing with friends, sprawling out on a blanket in the grass and simply listening to the orchestra play everything from the waltz to classic Disney tunes to Star Wars. Tulsa Symphony Orchestra concluded their performance with a rendition of “Oklahoma!”, which was accompanied by a fireworks show over Downtown Tulsa.
With so much to do, see and hear, the First Friday Art Crawl has something for everyone. The next event will be Oct. 4. Grab a bite to eat and then go explore the artistic community of Tulsa. You never know what you might find.